The annual Criminology and Criminal Justice Internship Fair is officially in the books, and the vendors and event organizers agree it was a big success. Held at the Dunlap Student Success Center, the fair boasted seven state and local agencies actively offering internship opportunities.
Over 140 students met face-to-face with representatives from the 2nd Circuit Public Defender's Office, Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, Florida Commission on Offender Review, Florida Department of Corrections, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Personal Security Concepts, and the Florida Public Safety Institute.
The internship Director for the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Jessica Webber, said that internships are much more than just pursuing a credit.
She said, "There are so many great opportunities where students can almost prototype their careers. Getting into that space and experiencing what they do allows students to determine if the agency/profession is right for them. The internship deadline is coming up on November 2nd, but these agencies are not going anywhere. They are enthusiastically searching for talent, so it is vital to jump at any chance to make a connection".
Criminology Senior Briana Sanchez-Lay says that she attended the fair to be able to present more than a resume. She said, "I met with every vendor, provided them with my resume and information, but also got the chance to pitch myself. Internships can be competitive, so anything you can do to help potential employers put a name with a face could make you a top candidate."
Vendors said that the fair surpassed their expectations, with over 140 students in attendance, ready to connect.
Kevin Goehrig, a Victim Services Supervisor for the Florida Commission on Offender Review, said, "We came here today hoping to get four to five good candidates to sign up. We are up to two-dozen names at only an hour in, and people are still filing i
Chief Probation Officer for the second circuit of the Florida Depart of Juvenile Justice and graduate of the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Christina Ash, said that networking during the fair is not limited to only students.
She said, "We are building relationships with these students, but we are also building a relationship with the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice. We need interns, and the staff actively wants to place interns, so working together and combining efforts is a no-brainer".
Internship Director Jessica Webber reminds those who missed the fair that help is here when you need it.
She said, "I am available to answer any questions you have about internships and credits. We have a well-rounded team ready to help set you up for success".
For additional information, please contact the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice Internship Director, Jessica Webber or visit the Internships and Careers page of the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice website.
